Heated Exchanges Disrupt Proceedings as Political Parties Clash
LoP’s Remarks Trigger Uproar in House; BJP, NC, AAP Members Clash
JAMMU, Mar 20: The Legislative Assembly witnessed chaotic scenes today after remarks by Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Kumar Sharma led to a heated confrontation between BJP, National Conference (NC), and AAP legislators, disrupting proceedings for over 11 minutes.
Tensions flared when Sharma, while participating in the discussion before the Chief Minister’s reply, stated that for the first time since India’s independence, legislators from Jammu and Kashmir had taken the oath of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing that J&K previously had dual constitutional control before August 5, 2019. He credited the Modi Government for ensuring equality and justice in the region.
His remarks provoked strong reactions from NC members and AAP MLA Mehraj Malik from Doda, leading to a heated exchange between the opposition and treasury benches. NC leaders accused the BJP of creating turmoil in J&K post-August 5, 2019, and criticized Sharma for deviating from the main discussion.
Another flashpoint emerged when Sharma alleged that 689 people from a particular community had illegally occupied land near the Tawi River, while only four individuals from Haryana had settled in Kashmir. His reference to “Land Jihad” sparked outrage, with members from a particular party vehemently opposing his remarks.
The situation escalated further when AAP MLA Mehraj Malik made objectionable remarks about a majority community in Jammu, angering BJP legislators. In a fit of rage, BJP members Yudhvir Sethi, Surinder Kumar, Vikram Randhawa, and Arvind Gupta rushed toward Malik, but were restrained by the watch and ward staff.
Later, while discussing the Chief Minister’s grants, Sharma accused Malik of hurting Hindu religious sentiments by linking the community to liquor. Demanding an apology, Sharma condemned the treasury benches for allowing such remarks.
As opposition members stood up in protest, BJP MLA Yudhvir Sethi again confronted Malik, who further provoked the situation by saying, “They are not Hindus.” The House remained in turmoil, with Speaker Mubarak Gul struggling to restore order.
The session ended in a deadlock, with both sides refusing to back down. (AGENCIES)
